Mar 2, 2012 10:45 AM

I just ran my first half marathon five days ago. It went great and other than a little soreness a day or two afterwards, I feel really good. As soon as I crossed the finish line I started thinking about the next half I wanted to sign up for -- so I have definitely caught the bug!

Knowing I want to get a second half marathon on the books, should I "capitalize" on my running base and coming off of a good first race and schedule another half sooner than later? (There's one in my area in two weeks and another in four weeks). Or, is it better to take a break from higher mileage and sign up for a race in the spring or summer, and slowly build up my distance?

I'm in decent shape and, thus far, have been injury free (knock on wood). Since I'm obviously very much a long distance novice, I'd very much like to hear others' advice and input -- especially, if I'm being too cocky to want to tackle another race in a few weeks.

I think the one in a month is better than two weeks. Take it easy this week, run your normal miles the next 2.5 and then run your race. If you ant to see improvements train for one in the fall. Good luck, watch that bug it can get you that's for sure.

I agree with Bos, the more cautious approach would be to resume your normal training schedule for adequate recovery time and continued endurance. Back-to-back distance events increase the changes for injury and then the entire race season is at risk. (along with a potential decline in your performance if you go directly to another half).

It is a wonderful accomplishment...congratulations and know that your enthusiasm will still be there in the coming months. (If racing is a particular motivator, do some local 8k or 10k weekend events before your next half).

I've decided not to chance running another half two weeks after my first and am looking for a race for the spring. Although I love running, it's been nice not to have three runs a week on my schedule right now!

I am in a similar situation to yours, In my case I waited one month for my second HM (last sunday).

I would advice you to pay special atention to recovery time. I have been running shorter races for a long time and generally go back to running two days after 10k. In the case of last's month HM I found out that I need about one week of almost no running in order to be completely ok (I waited only my customary two days and ended up with a few minor injuries). This week I rested for two days and I will be doing some light swimming sessions for the rest of the week.

Actions

More Like This

Retrieving data ...

ACTIVE is the leader in online event registrations from 5k running races and marathons to softball leagues and local events. ACTIVE also makes it easy to learn and prepare for all the things you love to do with expert resources, training plans and fitness calculators.